2020 Subaru WRX vs 2020 Audi A4

The WRX sedan has a long and respected history as the outstanding high performer of the Subaru stable. Based on the Subaru Impreza chassis, which has seen huge success in rally driving and police services around the world, it's a thrilling car that brings racer performance levels to the highway at a relatively affordable price.

The 2020 Subaru WRX model benefits from several updates to make it the best-handling, highest-performing version in the lineup's history. But how does it stack up against the Audi A4, one of its perhaps more widely known competitors?

Powertrain and Performance

In terms of sheer power, it's hard to find a street-legal sedan to beat the WRX. Its 2.0L turbocharged Boxer engine pushes out a full 268 horsepower, with a broad torque curve and a noticeable lack of turbo lag.

In comparison, the Audi A4 manages 248 horsepower from its 2.0L turbo engine. Under almost any scenario, this makes the Audi an attractively powerful drive, but it's still outshone by the Subaru in this battle of the high-performance beasts.

Both cars feature an automatic transmission, but the Subaru also benefits from an optional manual-emulation mode for a more hands-on driving experience.

Handling Capabilities

The luxurious amount of horsepower that both cars provide is pointless without solid handling capabilities to control and focus it. Both cars have all-wheel drive as standard, while the WRX also features symmetrical drive to distribute power to each wheel individually for maximum traction in all conditions.

What's more, the Subaru WRX is equipped with an advanced track-tuned suspension system with aggressive rates and high damping, providing excellent grip and flat cornering. This is a standard feature across the WRX range, whereas with the Audi, adaptive suspension is an extra only available on higher trim levels.

Looks and Body Shape

Both cars have the typical fastback sedan body shape, but the Audi is noticeably lower, longer, and wider than the Subaru, giving it a slightly sleeker feel. However, the WRX's robust lines and slightly higher ground clearance reflect its rally roots, giving it an imposing yet stylish appearance. Looks are highly subjective, so take your pick, but both cars are certain to turn heads on the highway.

Pricing of A4 and WRX Compared

Both the Subaru and the Audi are available in a wide range of trims at varying price points. You could own the entry-level 2020 WRX for just $29,995 while the most affordable A4 clocks in at $39,800. The large price difference also appears at the high end, with the most expensive WRX having an MSRP of $47,395, compared to the top-end A4 costing $62,700.

Subaru WRX vs Audi A4: The Verdict

Both cars are aimed at similar markets and share a considerable set of features. The raw performance and excellent handling of the Subaru WRX gives it an edge, even if for some the Audi is slightly more elegant looking. However, taking the price difference into account, the Subaru WRX is the clear winner.

Call us to arrange a test drive of the 2020 Subaru WRX in Toronto, and see just how much performance this sports sedan can deliver at a pocket-friendly price.